Victor Wembanyama’s Return Saturday: Can He Ignite the NBA Cup Against the Thunder?

Victor Wembanyama’s imminent return to the Spurs’ lineup is buzzing through the basketball world for good reason. sidelined since before Thanksgiving by a nagging calf strain, this towering talent is now poised to make a comeback just in time for a high-stakes NBA Cup semifinal showdown against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Spurs coach Mitch Johnson’s recent remarks paint a promising picture: after a grueling practice session, Wembanyama not only moved freely without support but also seemed eager to rejoin the fray. The Spurs have managed a solid 9-3 run in his absence, fueled by their dynamic trio of guards, yet there’s no doubt that Wemby’s formidable presence—remember his impressive averages of 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks—will shift the tides in their favor. That said, facing a blistering 24-1 Thunder squad featuring Chet Holmgren won’t be a gentle reintroduction. The stakes are sky-high—and the Spurs are counting on their phenom to rise to the occasion. LEARN MORE

As Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said was likely, Victor Wembanyama has been listed as probable and is expected to make his return from a calf strain on Saturday in an NBA Cup semifinals matchup against Oklahoma City.

After the Spurs advanced to Las Vegas and the NBA Cup semifinals, Johnson said, “(Wemby) had a really good day today. He had a very intense day this morning, and we have to see how he responds and reacts tomorrow.” It was a positive sign that after a hard workout earlier in the day, Wembanyama warmed up before the Spurs/Lakers game, moving well and not wearing a wrap or support on his calf.

Wembanyama has been out since before Thanksgiving due to a calf strain, missing a 12. The Spurs put the ball in the hands of their three attacking guards — De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle and rookie Dylan Harper — and went 9-3 in those games, including beating the Lakers Wednesday to advance to the NBA Cup semifinals. Wemby averaged 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds and 3.6 blocked shots a game before his injury, looking like an All-NBA player and someone who could even end up on a lot of MVP ballots. His return to the starting five will move Luke Kornet back to the bench.

Facing the 24-1 Thunder, with Chet Holmgren, is not exactly easing back into things for Wembanyama, but they will need him to have a chance in this game.